Your fur-baby, your ‘homie’ or simply your ‘good boy/girl’, your dog is an extension of your day-to-day life and, these days more than ever, it has become an almost norm that wherever you go, your dog should be able to go too.
That said, we’ve looked all across the country and have found some of the best restaurants in South Africa, serving up some great cuisine, and are more than happy to accommodate your four-legged companion too.
Cape Town
IYO Burgers
Voted one of the best burger joints in Cape Town, and to top it off being an ‘enviro-foodie’ connoisseur, Inside and You’re Out (IYO) Burgers is situated in the heart of the CBD. With a rating like this, you already know that if you haven’t yet, you need to give this place a try! For a more chilled vibe and a chance to ponder life with your dog by your side, consider visiting this Bree Street eatery during the day time.
Image courtesy of @iyoburgers via Instagram
Superette
Located at the Woodstock Exchange is where you’ll find the only spot that you really want to hang out at, on any day of the week. Superette is known for its amazing coffees, all-day breakfasts that consist of everything from Nutella-stuffed French toast to tasty toasties with a number of toppings. Best part is, your dogs are more than welcomed and you can definitely enjoy this trendy spot with your best friend.
Image courtesy of @_superette via Instagram.
Ons Huisie
A traditional restaurant located on a heritage site in Bloubergstrand, Ons Huisie is a lovely spot with great views to match. Tantalising West Coast cuisine can be sampled and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be back for more of the fish and chips, mussel pots and other well-known dishes! Kids love the place as there’s a playground that belongs to the restaurant, and parents can sit back and enjoy the views. Dog-friendly facilities are also in place.
Image courtesy of @iheartalita via Instagram.
Port Elizabeth
Something Good Roadhouse
Pizza, burgers, an extensive array of breakfast options, coffee, and to top it off – the best milkshakes in P.E, what more could you ask for when looking for an awesome spot to eat at? The restaurant is a labour of love as it was refurbished with a new name and layout years ago, and has since flourished into a modern-day ‘’old school’’ hang out with great sea views. Furry-buddies are welcomed, as long as they try not to steal all of this local restaurant’s charm.
Image courtesy of @somethinggoodpe via Instagram.
Grass Roof Bakery and Restaurant
For an authentic ‘farm-to-table’ experience, you should definitely stop by the Grass Roof Bakery and Restaurant in P.E. The restaurant is built on an olive farm and you can enjoy a walk around the grounds before or after your meal. Dogs (and cats, geese and other animals!) love the open space so prepare to enjoy a few hours on the farm.
Image courtesy of @grass_roof via Instagram.
Johannesburg
Urban Angel Bakery and Café
Wholesome, homemade and absolutely delectable, the foods from this bakery and eatery in Boskruin are definitely worth a try! Visitors are invited to sit back and let their hair down, and indulge in slow-cooked goodness. Make sure to try the sandwiches (made from farmstall ingredients), raw juices and smoothies. Bring your four-legged friend to relax on the outside grass and patio areas too.
Image courtesy of @urbancafefoodie via Instagram.
Cnr Café
Simple, fresh and delicious are some of the key requirements that make up the taste-adventure you’ll encounter at this Craighall Park hangout. Cnr Café offers a great variety of dishes and under head chef, Greig’s eagle eye, you’ll be guaranteed some proper Jozi indulgence with a gourmet flair. Cnr Café is pet-friendly.
Image courtesy of @cnrcafecraighallpark via Instagram.
Voodoo Lilly
Situated in the family-centred neighbourhood of Birdhaven, this feel-good eatery serves up some locally-made goodness on a plate. Voodoo Lilly has gained a name for being an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, as you enjoy your eggs benedict, or a homemade scone or two. Bring your dogs to enjoy the park right opposite the restaurant, and make sure to order some Voodoo Lilly treats for your pooch.
Image courtesy of @voodoolilycafe via Instagram.
Durban
Afro’s Chicken
Enjoy the chilled-back Durban vibes as you tuck into some juicy chicken burgers, salads, wraps and more. All of the food is proudly locally-sourced, everything is made on-site and you’ll be sure to enjoy the atmosphere of this low-key ‘lekker’ location. Bring your dog, bring your friends, bring your aunts, neighbours and everyone else too.
Image courtesy of @afroscchickenshop via Instagram.
Boiler Room Café
This restaurant is a hidden gem in Morningside, but once found you’ll be in for a great surprise. Boiler Room Café caters to the meat lovers (with some vegetarian options too) with spins on local favourites, like Bunny Chow and lamb wraps. The restaurant offers a relaxing atmosphere and has dog facilities.
Image coutesy of @boiler_room_cafe via Instagram.
So if you and your dog are keen on great eats and making some memories together, make sure to visit these fantastic restaurants in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and Durban, and let us know what you think.
- IYO Burgers
- Superette
- Ons Huisie
- Something Good Roadhouse
- Grass Roof Bakery and Restaurant
- Urban Angel Bakery and Cafe
- Cnr Cafe
- Voodoo Lily
- Afro’s Chicken
- Boiler Room Cafe